The 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 – second generation. The Mach 1 nomenclature denotes the special performance version of Mustangs from a time long past. In my opinion, the second generation is not as handsome as the first gen, but this example is in such great condition it is hard to not stare. However, the hood pin was dangling precariously about which did not seem in character with this car. Enjoy some pics!

The Ford Mustang was successfully introduced in April 1964 as a sporty “pony car” to attract younger buyers into Ford products. After a few years of development, Ford saw the need to create performance Mustangs to compete with GM and their release of the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird.

As the performance war continued, the Mustang’s platform and engine bay were progressively redesigned to accommodate larger engine blocks. Late in the 1968 model year, Ford introduced the 428 cu in (7.0 L) Cobra Jet FE engine in a small group of Mustang GTs and into the 1968 Shelby GT500KR. This was a strong performer and indicated the direction of the 1969 Mustang. However, “GT” wasn’t a name that would initiate images of street screeching performance; hence the introduction of the Mach 1 title.